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IC Markets vs Exness (2026): Which Broker Is Actually Better?
We compare IC Markets against Exness across spreads, regulations, platforms, and trading costs. Read our algorithmic breakdown and expert verdict to find out which broker suits your trading style in 2026.
Verdict: It's a Tie
Both IC Markets and Exness offer exceptional trading environments with distinct strengths. IC Markets is ideal for scalpers, ea traders & low-latency algorithmic trading, while Exness excels for low-cost traders, high-volume day traders & scalpers. Your choice should depend entirely on whether you prioritize consistently deepest liquidity and tightest raw spreads (0.0) or ultra-tight spreads from 0.0 pips.
IC Markets vs Exness: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | | |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 2007 | 2008 |
| Overall Rating | 4.6/5.0 | 4.8/5.0 |
| Minimum Deposit | $200 | $1 |
| EUR/USD Spread | 0.0 pips (Raw) | 0.8 pips (Standard) | 0.0 pips (Raw) | 1.0 pips (Standard) |
| Maximum Leverage | 1:500 | 1:Unlimited |
| MetaTrader 4 | Yes | Yes |
| MetaTrader 5 | Yes | Yes |
| cTrader | Yes | No |
| TradingView | Yes | No |
| Copy Trading | Yes | Yes |
| Forex Pairs | 61 | 100+ |
| Deposit Methods | Card, PayPal, Neteller, Skrill, Wire, Broker-to-Broker | Bank, Card, Skrill, Neteller, Crypto, Local |
| Withdrawal Speed | 24-48 hours | Instant |
| Execution Type | True ECN | Market Execution |
IC Markets vs Exness: Fee Breakdown
When comparing the trading costs between IC Markets and Exness, it's essential to look beyond just the advertised spreads. We must factor in commissions, swap rates, and non-trading fees like deposit or inactivity charges. IC Markets offers pricing characterized by $3.50/lot (Raw Spread) alongside 0.0 pips (Raw) | 0.8 pips (Standard) spreads. In contrast, Exness utilizes a model with $3.50/lot (Raw Spread) and 0.0 pips (Raw) | 1.0 pips (Standard) spreads. For active, high-volume traders, either broker provides the superior cost-efficiency curve.
| Fee Type | IC Markets | Exness |
|---|---|---|
| EUR/USD Spread | 0.0 pips (Raw) | 0.8 pips (Standard) | 0.0 pips (Raw) | 1.0 pips (Standard) |
| Commission Defaults | $3.50/lot (Raw Spread) | $3.50/lot (Raw Spread) |
| Execution Model | True ECN | Market Execution |
| Deposit Fees | None | None |
| Withdrawal Speed | 24-48 hours | Instant |
Safety & Regulation: Is IC Markets or Exness Safer?
Trust is paramount in forex trading. Both IC Markets and Exness are highly regulated entities, but their jurisdictional footprints differ. IC Markets is armed with 2 Tier-1 licenses and has been securing client funds since 2007. Exness, licensed since 2008, counters with 2 Tier-1 regulatory bodies overseeing its operations. They are evenly matched in terms of top-tier trust metrics. Both brokers employ strict client fund segregation.
IC Markets
Tier 1- Regulators:ASIC (Australia)CySEC (Cyprus)Seychelles FSASCB (Bahamas)
- Investor Protection: ASIC client money rules & European ICF
- Licensed Since: 2007
Exness
Tier 1- Regulators:FCA (UK)CySEC (Cyprus)FSCA (South Africa)FSA (Seychelles)
- Investor Protection: Up to €20,000 (EU ICF)
- Licensed Since: 2008
Platform & Tools Comparison
The software you trade on dictates your execution speed and analytical depth. Both brokers provide industry stalwarts, but divergencies exist. IC Markets equips its clients with MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView. Exness, on the other hand, grants access to MT4, MT5, Exness Terminal, Exness Trade App. If you rely on TradingView charting, this section heavily dictates your broker choice.
| Feature | IC Markets | Exness |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 | ||
| MetaTrader 5 | ||
| cTrader | ||
| TradingView | ||
| Proprietary Environment | ||
| Copy Trading Network |
Pros & Cons: IC Markets vs Exness
IC Markets
Pros
- Consistently deepest liquidity and tightest raw spreads (0.0)
- Servers located in NY4 & LD5 datacenters for <40ms latency
- No restrictions on scalping, hedging, or EAs
- Excellent support for cTrader and TradingView
- Massive global trading volume
Cons
- Customer service can be slower during peak times
- $200 minimum deposit is slightly higher than competitors
- Basic research and educational material
Exness
Pros
- Ultra-tight spreads from 0.0 pips
- Instant automated withdrawals 24/7
- Unlimited leverage options
- Free VPS for active traders
- Excellent proprietary mobile app
Cons
- No cTrader or TradingView integration
- Educational resources are relatively basic
- Not available to US clients
Expert Verdict: IC Markets vs Exness
When we place IC Markets and Exness side-by-side, we observe two distinct philosophies in client servicing. IC Markets, licensed since 2007, has carved out a massive niche focusing on scalpers, ea traders & low-latency algorithmic trading. Their execution model heavily leans into True ECN, and their platform environment highlights MT4.
Conversely, Exness, operational out of Cyprus, has architected its infrastructure predominantly for low-cost traders, high-volume day traders & scalpers. Their $3.50/lot (Raw Spread) commission structure combined with 0.0 pips (Raw) | 1.0 pips (Standard) spreads makes them a formidable competitor.
The Bottom Line: If your primary directive is consistently deepest liquidity and tightest raw spreads (0.0), and you intend to start with a minimum of $200, IC Markets is the logical path forward. If, however, you value ultra-tight spreads from 0.0 pips and require MT4, Exness edges out the competition and earns our recommendation.
IC Markets vs Exness: Frequently Asked Questions
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Risk Warning: Forex and CFD trading involves significant risk of loss. 68–80% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.|Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive compensation from the brokers listed on this page. This does not influence our rankings or reviews, which are based on independent analysis.
Comparison data updated February 2026. Broker terms, spreads, and conditions vary by region and account type. See our methodology | Full Disclaimer | Privacy Policy